Entrepreneur got green light for wellness, now municipality forces towards prostitution

For years, The Harbour Spa has operated a small-scale private spa in IJmuiden. Before construction began, the municipality of Velsen explicitly asked if a private sauna was allowed at this location. The official answer, signed by the mayor himself, was clear: "Yes, this is allowed and no permit is needed."

Now - years later - the municipality is completely turning around. According to the municipality, wellness would violate the "Culture and Leisure" zoning plan, but a sex establishment would fit. The order under penalty payment recently received by the entrepreneur even literally contains a link to the application for an operating licence for a sex establishment.

Permission from mayor

"We started in good faith at the time," says Ivo Kragten, owner of The Harbour Spa. "As an entrepreneur, when you receive a signed letter from the mayor, you assume it is correct. That the municipality now states that a brothel would fit better within the destination 'Culture and Leisure' than a wellness, is not only absurd, but also a slap in the face of our employees and guests."

Contribution to the city

The Harbour Spa has provided employment for several employees in recent years and attracts visitors from outside IJmuiden who also frequent the local hospitality industry and shops. According to the entrepreneur, the business adds "something unique and positive to IJmuiden", with no nuisance, no complaints and fully private access by appointment.

Impending bankruptcy

With the injunction imposed, closure and bankruptcy is imminent. Dozens of reservations would have to be cancelled and jobs would be lost. An objection procedure and a preliminary injunction before the court have now been initiated.

Call to city council

Kragten urges Velsen's municipal council to review this policy. "Wellness belongs unmistakably within the destination "Culture and Leisure" and contributes to a healthy and attractive city."